AES conducts water survival training Published May 12, 2017 By Benjamin Faske 433rd Airlift Wing Public Affairs JOINT BASE SAN ANTONIO-LACKLAND, Texas -- Airmen from the 433rd Aeromedical Evacuation Squadron were surprised by the cool water temperature as they walked into Canyon Lake to begin their triannual water survival training May 5, 2017 at Joint Base San Antonio- Canyon Lake. The Airmen began their training by using MK-124 Marine Signal Flares; these devices are used to identify the location of personnel during rescue and recovery missions during night and day operations. They then put on life preservers and walked into the water. Once in the water everyone linked arms and swam as a group to a 25-man life raft stationed 100 yards offshore. One by one the Airmen lifted themselves into the raft. Tech. Sgt. Justin Samaniego, 433rd Operations Support Squadron survival evasion resistance and escape instructor, reviewed open water survival techniques that could help with rescue efforts in the event of a water crash landing. “This is a good opportunity to get some hands on experience with the flares and raft, so if they ever need to use it they will know how everything works in the event of a worst case scenario.” said Samaniego “We discussed how to survive in the life raft for prolonged periods of time, how to procure food and water, including some of the medical concerns they might see in a recovery situation.” The training concluded with everyone reentering the water from the life raft and swimming to shore. The triannual training is required for all aircrew Air Force Specialty Codes in the Air Force.